MP criticises rail bosses bonuses

Network Rail bosses should be focusing on efficiency, not giving six-figure bonuses to directors, the chair of the transport select committee has said.

MP Louise Ellman was reacting to news that top Network Rail bosses will get bonuses totalling over £1.2m despite criticism of the firm's performance.

She said the bonuses "displayed lack of sensitivity to passengers" who she said still faced numerous delays.

Network Rail said its successes "should not be overshadowed" by its failings.

'Bonus culture'

Mrs Ellman said: "Network Rail have again displayed lack of sensitivity to passengers. Huge amounts of money have been spent on the West Coast Main Line but there are still too many unnecessary delays and shut-downs over bank holidays.

"They keep saying they are becoming more efficient, but this is just not happening. It is time they paid a bit more attention to improvements and to the needs of passengers rather than this bonus culture."

The Labour MP said it was time Network Rail's accountability to the public was reviewed.

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